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Rep. Ellison: Congress should be involved in defining US role in Libya

Republicans in the U.S. House are demanding President Barack Obama quickly spell out precise goals in Libya.

U.S. Rep. Keith Ellison, D-Minn., said Libyan president Moamar Gadhafi must be stopped from killing civilians. But he also said the U.S. should limit its role in Libya to enforcing a UN-mandated no fly zone.

"I do support the no-fly zone, but I will say there needs to be a strong congressional role so we can make sure the U.S. role in pursuing the UN mandate is not exceeded," Ellison said. "Congress needs to be engaged, Congress needs to be involved, but there's no doubt saving Libyan lives is important to me."

Republicans and some Democrats criticize President Barack Obama for going ahead with military action in Libya without congressional approval.